Legba

Legba is a prominent figure in Haitian Vodou and related Afro-Caribbean religious traditions. He is considered a lwa (orisha in some Yoruba-derived systems) who acts as the intermediary between humans and the divine. In West Africa and its diaspora, the role of Legba is closely associated with the Yoruba Éṣù (Eshu) or Elegua, the messenger and guardian of crossroads, thresholds, and paths. Across these traditions, Legba functions as the gatekeeper who opens lines of communication for prayers, offerings, and spirits.

Ritual role: Legba is typically invoked first in ceremonies to obtain permission for speaking with the other spirits and ancestors. He is believed to control language and the enactment of rituals, and his mood can influence the progress of a ceremony depending on proper offerings and respect.

Iconography and worship: He is commonly portrayed as an old man with a staff or crutch, sometimes wearing a hat, and is associated with keys and doorways; in some communities he appears as a child or youth. Offerings to Legba vary but often include rum, tobacco, candy (in ceremonies involving children), and other items depending on local practice. He is known colloquially as Papa Legba.

Syncretism: In Haitian Vodou Legba is frequently syncretized with Saint Peter, reflecting his gatekeeping role. In many African diasporic traditions, the figure is connected to Éṣù/Elegua of the Yoruba lineage and to similar orisha-lwa figures under different names; regional names and depictions vary widely.